The Ayres Natural Bridge, just west of Douglas, Wyoming, arches over the LaPrele Creek. It’s one of the rare natural bridges with water running underneath.
Surrounding the bridge is a public park, owned by Converse County, that offers picnic tables, a playground, volleyball, fishing, and horseshoes. Camping and group events are available by reservation. Wooden park benches sit along the creek banks under tall shade trees so visitors can relax and enjoy listening to and watching the running water. It’s all nestled in a stunning canyon with red rock walls.
Two trails lead to the top of the bridge, one more challenging than the other. Signs warn to watch for rattlesnakes.
The area was donated to Converse County in 1920 by Andrew C. Ayres for a free park. Old photos and other information in the registration booth delve into its history more deeply.
Part of its history includes an old, abandoned power house, built in the early 1900s by North Platte Irrigation to pump water from the North Platte River. The concrete walls still stand, although nothing is left within, and mud swallows have built nests along its eaves.